The Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) has conferred its patron title on the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, in recognition of his contributions to military-media relations.
The conferment took place at the 2026 DECAN Conference on National Security and Awards, held on Monday, Oct. 12, at the Army Command Officers’ Mess 1, Asokoro, Abuja.
Gabkwet’s recognition was linked to his previous service as the Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI) of the NAF, where he played a key role in managing the service’s public communication and engagement with the media.
As DOPRI, he served as a vital link between the Air Force and defence correspondents, facilitating information dissemination and media engagement on the service’s operations, activities and institutional developments.
His conferment as DECAN patron underscores the association’s recognition of his contributions to strengthening professional relations between the military and the media.
The DECAN Conference brought together stakeholders in the defence and security sector to discuss national security challenges and recognise individuals whose contributions have advanced defence communication and public engagement.
DECAN names AVM Gabkwet patron
